For there is no distinction,
since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God 
(Romans 3: 22b-23a)

What we say and then, how it is heard and understood, is not in our control.

As we approach the International Day of Peace - 21 September

Lord, we pray for the power to be gentle,
the strength to be forgiving,
the patience to be understanding,
and the endurance to accept the consequences

And he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

On Wednesday, together with many others, I stood and shared in the reading of the names of 18,432 children killed since 7 October 2023. The names included all killed – in Gaza, Israel and the West Bank. After each name there was a pause and their age was read. It was heart-breaking; some under the age of 1 and others older teenagers, and so many in between.

A Jerusalem Voice for Justice: an ecumenical witness for equality and a just peace in Palestine/Israel

"We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10).

All individuals, both Israelis and Palestinians, must be able to live in full equality, justice, and peace in Palestine/Israel.

St. Dimitrii of Rostov

Come, my Light, and illumine my darkness.

Come, my Life, and revive me from death.

Come, my Physician, and heal my wounds...